By: James Kamara-Manneh
Following the pronouncement of the June 24 presidential election by the returning officer and the Chief Electoral Commissioner, Mohamed Konneh declared the incumbent government led by President Julius Maada Bio with 56.17% of the total vote cast; an olive branch has been extended to the main opposition APC.
“I, therefore, extend a hand of fellowship to my brother and foremost opposition leader, Dr Samura Kamara of the All People’s Congress (APC), to join us in the arduous task of nation-building. The job ahead is enormous, but collectively, we can build the country of our dreams ─ Sierra Leone our current and future generations deserve.
“It is time for us to join hands in blurring the lines drawn during the spirited campaign season and reunite as one united family — proud members of the Sierra Leonean nation,” he noted.
He further recognized the citizens for their overwhelming support and trust, pledging to continue the transformational work that began in 2018.
“I am extremely humbled and immensely thankful for the trust and confidence you have placed in me with your overwhelming vote ─ securing me and the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) victory to lead our great nation, Sierra Leone, for another term of five years,” he stated.
President Bio reiterated that his government would focus on food security, consolidating gains in Human Capital Development, creating jobs for young people, revamping the public service and developing technology and infrastructure.
The President acknowledged the peaceful and transparent electoral process, which reflected the will of the people. He emphasized the importance of democratic values and the peaceful conduct of elections, positioning Sierra Leone as a model for young democracies.
President Bio highlighted the achievements of his first term, despite global economic challenges, and outlined his priorities for the next five years. These priorities include food security, human capital development, job creation for the youth, revamping public service, and technological and infrastructural development.
He expressed his gratitude to his party, the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), and all those who supported him during the campaign. He called for unity among political party leaders, civil society organizations, and religious and traditional leaders to work together for the progress and prosperity of Sierra Leone.
He further commends the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) for conducting a free, fair, transparent, and credible election. He also thanked local and international observer missions, the media, and development partners for their contributions to the democratic process.
He encouraged all Sierra Leoneans to create the future they desire and deserve for their nation. He called on all citizens to join him in building a prosperous Sierra Leone, emphasizing the importance of peace, law-abiding behaviour, and unity.
He promised to establish an inclusive government by bringing together progressive forces, including political party leaders, Civil Society Organisations, and religious and traditional leaders to forge a common front to move this country forward.
